​I don’t know about you but finding time to sit down and create can be a challenge. It’s like exercise, I know I need to do it, but there are so many things in my to do list that art making can feel frivolous. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth. Making time to create sends a message inward that my needs are important. It also provides an opportunity to temporarily release the stress and chaos of a busy mind.

I recently went to the Open Studio at the Ecumenical Center where Vicki Williams Patterson holds space for people to create. I brought my canvas, acrylics and a kernel of an idea. I allowed creativity to flow. I gave myself permission to play, and I had a wonderful time! Engaging in creative expression can be so invigorating and inspiring!

I challenge you to engage in creativity as a form self-care for one month. Carve out a specific time each day where you can stretch your creative muscles, even if for 15 minutes. Keep a journal to track your progress and reflections. You don’t have to draw! Maybe your creative outlet is cooking, writing, or creating music. Whatever creativity looks like for you, go with that!